Back
Print 

De Quervain's Tenosynovitis: Care Instructions

Skip Navigation

Top of the page

Overview

De Quervain's (say "duh-kair-VAZ") tenosynovitis is a problem that makes the bottom of your thumb and the side of your wrist hurt. When you have de Quervain's, the ropey fiber (tendon) that helps move your thumb away from your fingers becomes swollen.

You may have pain when you move your wrist or pick things up. You may hear a creaking sound when you move your wrist or thumb.

Symptoms often get better in a few weeks with home care. Your doctor may want you to start some gentle stretching exercises once your symptoms are gone. Sometimes treatment with an injection or surgery is needed.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

How can you care for yourself at home?

  • Until your symptoms are better, stop the activities that caused the pain.
  • Avoid moving the hand and wrist that hurt.
  • Follow your doctor's directions for wearing a splint to keep your thumb and wrist from moving.
  • Try ice or heat.
    • Put ice or a cold pack on your thumb and wrist for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Put a thin cloth between the ice and your skin.
    • You can use heat for 20 to 30 minutes, 2 or 3 times a day. Try using a heating pad, hot shower, or hot pack.
  • Ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter pain medicine, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve). Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.

When should you call for help?

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

  • You have new or worse pain.
  • You have new or worse numbness or tingling in your hand or fingers.
  • Your hand feels weaker.
  • You do not get better as expected.

Where can you learn more?

Go to http://www.healthwise.net/patientEd

Enter Y804 in the search box to learn more about "De Quervain's Tenosynovitis: Care Instructions".

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.